Sportsman Ryan Zinke Confirmed as Secretary of the Interior

Marking a banner day for American hunters, shooters, gun owners and fellow sportsmen nationwide, NRAHLF.org is pleased to report that Rep. Ryan Zinke (R-Mont.) and former U.S. Navy Seal was just confirmed as the Secretary of the Interior with a bi-partisan vote of 68-31.

“On behalf of our 5 million members, the National Rifle Association congratulates Secretary Ryan Zinke on his confirmation as the 52nd Secretary of the Interior,” said Chris W. Cox, executive director of the National Rifle Association's Institute for Legislative Action. “The confirmation of an avid outdoorsman to lead the U.S. Department of the Interior marks the end of a hostile era toward hunters and sportsmen. The NRA looks forward to working with Secretary Zinke in the pursuit of true conservation that respects the rights of America’s outdoorsmen and women."

As a native Montanan and a sportsman, Zinke has a deep appreciation for wildlife and conservation. He recognizes the importance of public-land access for all hunters and outdoorsmen and that scientific-based wildlife management—not emotion or political agendas—is critical to ensuring the future of America’s natural wildlife resources.

Leading up to today’s vote, Cox explained that Zinke has supported legislation that would restore common sense to our nation’s wildlife management policies. Sportsmen across America have much to be thankful for as the outcome of today’s vote further signals an end to eight years of overreach by the Obama administration.